The Milky Way and the Southern Lights form a stunning backdrop for the Church of the Good Shepherd in New Zealand — Photo courtesy of iStock/Rattapon_Wannaphat
"If people sat outside and looked at the stars each night, I'll bet they'd live a lot differently."
Calvin and Hobbes author Bill Watterson said that, and we tend to agree. Looking up at the sky can really put life in perspective, as you take in the vastness of the universe and realize that you're really just a tiny speck in a great macrocosm.
Yes, stars can have that kind of effect on people but only if you can see them. In a world sullied by excessive lighting, it can be difficult to become a weekend astronomer.
If you're seeking the darkest night skies, look no further than dedicated International Dark Sky Reserves. These are locations with exceptional nocturnal environments that are protected from light pollution, where the stars can be seen at their brightest.
Here are 10 places (and perhaps a bonus few) that offer the best stargazing conditions.
Aoraki Mackenzie | New Zealand
Located on New Zealand's South Island, the massive combined area of Aoraki and the Mackenzie Basin provide a stunning backdrop for searching the heavens.
Brecon Beacons National Park | Wales
Primarily populated by sheep, this part of south Wales lacks the population density that would have a negative effect on the night sky, although it is within easy reach of over a million people. The beautiful Brecon Beacons National Park, and residents of the area, have remained committed to preserving the unparalleled view of the night sky.
Central Idaho | U.S.A.
The only International Dark Sky Reserve in America, Central Idaho is nearly 100% rugged wilderness with no infrastructure. And that means no electric lighting to taint the celestial atmosphere.
Exmoor National Park | England
The 81 square kilometers of protected core land at Exmoor are a treasure trove. In addition to the dark sky, you'll find other attractions of interest like a deserted medieval settlement and Bronze Age burial mounds.
Kerry | Ireland
If you plan to follow the Wild Atlantic Way trail in Ireland, you'll also come across Kerry. It's worth stopping overnight to enjoy the brilliant sky.
Mont-Mégantic | Québec
Located close to the Maine border, Mont-Mégantic is a pioneering force in reducing light pollution, having decreased the area's contributions by 25 percent. That means lower energy consumption and, of course, clearer and darker night skies.
Moore's Reserve, South Downs National Park | England
You'll be surprised to learn that Moore's Reserve is within 100 kilometers of London, one of the most light-polluted locales on the planet. Yet, the reserve area within South Downs is shockingly dark. If you go during the day, stop by the Halnaker holloway – it's a magical tunnel of trees.
NamibRand Nature Reserve | Namibia
Situated in the Namib Desert, this reserve is one of the darkest places on Earth. You'll probably also have the chance to see plenty of local wildlife.
Pic du Midi | France
Pic du Midi is incredibly photogenic, home to a massive observatory and surrounded by gorgeous mountains. Taking in the scene will make you feel like you're in a James Bond movie, especially in the dead of night.
Rhön | Germany
This massive reserve covers over 1,700 square kilometers, with the core zone offering the darkest skies. You'll find them in Hohe Geba, Lange Rhön and Schwarze Berge.
Snowdonia National Park | Wales
With a magical name like "Snowdonia," it's no wonder that you'll find the starriest of skies here. The interior is made up of uninhabitable wilderness making it one of the darkest places left in south Britain.
Westhavelland Nature Park | Germany
Westhavelland is shockingly close to densely populated Berlin, yet it's one of the largest protected areas in the state of Brandenburg. Some six million people are within easy reach of the park, making the juxtapositions of light/dark and bustling/barren all the more impressive.
